The Cabo Verdean government classified the first lighthouse built in the country as an item of National Cultural Heritage on Wednesday, part of an effort to safeguard valuable structures and encourage more tourism, according to a government bulletin.
Perched at the southernmost point of the island of Santiago, Dona Maria Pia Lighthouse has been active since 1881, lighting the way for generations of sailors as they approached Praia Harbour.
The simple white structure, comprising a single-storey base and three-storey octagonal tower, is dotted with tall, arched windows.
[See more: China invests US$27.4 million in Cabo Verde]
A door on the second storey offers access to the rooftop, or visitors can climb the wooden spiral staircase to the top for the best view over the bay.
The lighthouse and an adjacent outbuilding were recently refurbished by the government. Rusted cannons in the lighthouse courtyard, once the first line of defence for the capital, have been given new wooden mounts.Visitors have given the lighthouse positive reviews since the refurbishment was completed, enjoying the mix of history, architecture and natural beauty of the spot, particularly popular for taking in the sunset.
